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National Scenic Trail · Wisconsin

Ice Age National Scenic Trail

National Scenic Trail in Wisconsin. No entrance fee.

By The Green Adventures · Updated · How we check

TypeNational Scenic Trail
StateWisconsin
Entrance feeNo entrance fee
CampgroundsNone
Nearest national parkIndiana Dunes (205 mi)
Closest airportCWA (55 mi)
Photograph of a large glacial erratic boulder in autumn with trees covered in colorful foliage and f
Glacial Erratic Boulder on Harwood Lake Segment of Ice Age National Scenic Trail Photo: NPS Photo / Billy Flynn

Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a national scenic trail run by the National Park Service in Wisconsin.

In the park service’s words

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail spans 1,200 miles, traverses some of Wisconsin's finest geologic and glacial features, and passes through the ancestral lands of 15 Tribes. The Trail is built, managed and maintained by dedicated volunteers, Ice Age Trail Alliance, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, local partners, and the National Park Service.

From the National Park Service (public domain).

Fees and hours

Entrance fee: No entrance fee.

Hours: Open 24 hours, every day. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is not your 'typical' park. The trail is almost 1,200 miles long and crosses the state of Wisconsin north to south and east to west. The Trail is open year round. However some segments may be closed during Wisconsin's November 9-day gun deer hunting season. Additional information about hunting seasons, trail conditions and closures along the rest of the trail is available from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the Ice Age Trail Alliance.

Getting there

Ice Age National Scenic Trail spans nearly 1,200 miles across Wisconsin. Major commercial airports are located in cities and regional hubs throughout the state, offering access to the trail. Numerous trailheads with parking are available, allowing you to explore the trail at various entry points along the route.

Airport City Drive to the park Straight-line miles Type
Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA) Mosinee, WI No road route 55 Regional
Appleton International Airport (ATW) Appleton, WI No road route 55 Regional
Dane County Regional Truax Field (MSN) Madison, WI No road route 60 Regional
General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) Milwaukee, WI No road route 110 Large hub

Drive times run from the airport to Zion Canyon Visitor Center, estimated with OSRM routing on OpenStreetMap roads at normal speeds; allow extra for traffic, stops and construction.

Miles are straight-line distances.

Weather

Wisconsin has four distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm, while winters are cold, often bringing significant snowfall. Weather conditions can vary widely throughout the year and location on the trail. Prepare accordingly for each season when visiting the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.

From the National Park Service (public domain).

Know before you go

Drones are banned at almost every park site, and you may not take rocks, plants or artifacts. Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet where they are allowed. Bring no firewood from home.

Nearby

The nearest national park is Indiana Dunes, about 205 miles away in a straight line.

Sources

Last checked 1 November 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee at Ice Age National Scenic Trail?

No entrance fee.

Where is Ice Age National Scenic Trail?

In Wisconsin. The closest airport with scheduled flights is Central Wisconsin Airport, about 55 miles away.

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